Airedale Terrier History & Breeder Information

The Airedale Terrier originated from the Aire Dale in Yorkshire,
England. Commonly referred to as ‘Airedales’ these large dogs
were originally bred to hunt otters, but their versatility
allows them to meet most challenges. The Airedale’s size ranges
from 50 to 70 pounds. Airedale’s have a “broken coat” that needs
to be regularly groomed and maintained to keep its distinctive
look. The term Stripping is referred to has the proper
way to groom an Airedales coat. This involves using a small
serrated edged knife to extract loose and old hair. The
Airedale’s broken coat is a wiry topcoat with a soft undercoat.
Broken coats do not shed nearly as smooth coats. The breed
standard coat colors accepted by the AKC are black saddle, with
a tan head, ears and legs; or a dark grizzle saddle (black mixed
with gray and white).

Usually Airedale
Terrier puppies get their tail docked, but this is not an
AKC requirement. They have black gums with the largest teeth of
any dog in the terrier group. Airedale’s teeth are quite sharp.
Airedale’s are primarily used for working, hunting, and
retrieving. They have a stubborn, strong-willed temperament,
complemented by a great sense of humor. They are reliable
companions and very effective protective dogs. Hip dysplasia is
the only inherited disease common to the Airedale and they are
not anymore prone to it than most dogs. Being in the Terrier
group, Airedales can be prone towards dermatitis. Airedale’s
usually live to be about 12 years old, however many have lived
several years longer; some as long as 17 years old.

The Airedale Terrier was created by the British in the mid 19
century by mixing the White English, Irish, and Black and Tan
Terriers together. This resulted in a very intelligent, hard
working, versatile dog breed comfortable working on land and in
the water. Airedale are truly an all-purpose dog. Airedale’s
played a crucial role during World War I by carrying messages to
British and other allied soldiers located in the trenches often
under horrible conditions. The bond created between humans and
Airedale’s during this period will forever be unbreakable.
Airedale Terrier’s make great pet dogs.